Shanghai, 05-11-2015
Chawrasia, Lahiri off to steady starts in Shanghai
The Indian duo of SSP Chawrasia and Anirban Lahiri were off to steady starts at the US$8.5 million WGC-HSBC Champions on Thursday with rounds of three-under-69 and two-under-70 respectively. Branden Grace of South Africa led the field with a nine-under-63 total.
SSP Chawrasia, a three-time Asian Tour winner, was sharp with his short game at the Sheshan International Golf Club as he made a total of 28 putts to be placed tied 31st.
“Honestly this is a very long course for me and I just have to hit it straight and putt well. I did all of that today and I'm happy with how I've played.
“It's a good start and hopefully I can continue the momentum,†said Chowrasia.
Anirban Lahiri meanwhile remained confident of catching up with the leaders although he could only post a 70 for a share of 42nd place at the Shanghai showpiece, which is also the richest tournament in Asia.
The Asian Tour Order of Merit leader did not get off to the best of starts when he ran out with a 37 in his back-nine.
However, the seven-time Asian Tour winner, rallied with a flawless inward-nine that was marked with three birdies on holes two, five and seven.
“I have a chance of catching up with the guys ahead, because there's lots of birdies being made today.
“I just started out weak. I missed a whole lot of putts inside eight feet, so that cost me quite a bit. But I'm happy with the way I played on the back nine,†said Lahiri.
Source: Asian Tour
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